Created in 2009, WhatsApp has grown to be the most popular messaging platform in the world, now with over 2 billion active users and over 5 billion app downloads.
The platform sees over 300 billion messages and 8 billion voice messages sent between users. The Meta-owned chat app now has new improvements and features which you should take advantage of this month.
Ability to Post Longer Statuses: 60-Second Voice Messages and Videos
WhatsApp now allows you to post longer voice messages and videos up to 1 minute long on its ephemeral Status feature. To post 1-minute videos and voice messages, make sure to update your app to the latest version.
Meta AI integration
Meta recently ported their A.I.-powered smart assistant integrated across all its apps including WhatsApp. The assistant is available via a chatbot on WhatsApp and is powered by two small Llama 3 models(8B and 70B parameter scale).
The chatbot not only answers questions but also uses text prompts to create images as well. The Meta AI chatbot icon is next to the compose button on the Chat tab in the new bottom navigation bar for some users.
Pinned Media Thumbnail Preview in Chats
WhatsApp now provides clear thumbnail previews for pinned media in chats, making it easier to view photos and videos at a glance.
Status Updates Thumbnail Preview
The Status Updates tab now has taller rectangular thumbnail previews instead of the circle icon. Bigger previews are nice since not all Status updates require our attention.
Event Management Feature in Communities
WhatsApp has added new tools for community event organisers. Community members can create an event and participants can confirm attendance in advance. This makes it easier to organise events or discuss topics.
Channel Categories
You can use the search filters to look up channels that interest you according to topics. This can be done by tapping on the Explore More button right above the channels. Topics range from business, people, sports, lifestyle, entertainment, and organizations.
Locked Chats in Linked Devices
WhatsApp has added locked chat feature to chats in linked devices and not just the primary device to make your conversations and messages more secure and private.
